I’m not really sure how to start this post, but here it goes…
Spot has a soft tissue injury or bone bruise in her lower left pastern.
She has had this strange on again off again slight lameness going to the left and it got worst last week so I called to arrange for a lameness exam to see what was going on. She flexed out fine on both legs but when trotting on hard ground to the left she definitely was a bit off so we did a Palmar block. No change with that so we went up one more and did a Abaxial and that seemed to do the trick. We did x-rays to see if there was anything bony that was causing the issue, but nothing showed up. The interesting thing is, she has no swelling or heat in her legs at all. In fact, the vet was really surprised that the tendons in her legs and x-rays were so clean. So, basically she told me that I would probably need an MRI to see what was really going on or to give Spot a long rest and then see what we have after 8 months.
I’m pretty upset…I’ve been going through phases where I’m depressed and want to cry, and some moments where I think I’m ok and the time off will be good for both of us. So, we begin our long and arduous journey in rehab/time off. Spot is good in pasture so she’ll still be turned out, but we’ll be hand walking for 30 minutes for 30 days, then 45 minutes for 30 days, then 1 hour for 30 days. After 1 hour of walking is reached I can see what I have and maybe get on and tack walk, but we’ll see. The plan is to hold off on the MRI for now and if Spot is still off after 3 months off we’ll then take her in for one.
Does anyone have any tidbits of wisdom for us while we go through this? I’ve never dealt with a soft tissue or bone bruise before so any personal experience you guys have would be great.
Now, that's The Spot! 
oh no! i am so so sorry! you must be so upset 😦 no tidbits or personal experiences to share, tho Megan from A Enter Spooking wrote a great post on her experiences with soft tissue injuries here: http://aenterspooking.blogspot.com/2014/12/my-experience-with-soft-tissue-injuries.html
whatever the case – wishing you the best of luck and keep us posted on Spot’s progress 😦
LikeLike
Thanks! That was a really good read! And thanks for the good wishes…she’s a tough cookie so I’m hoping it all works out. 🙂
LikeLike
this sounds a lot like what i’m going through with auto. have you had an ultrasound? i would encourage you to find an excellent ultrasoundist (i’ve come to learn that they’re not all created equal in how well they can read the ultrasound).
also, i’ll keep you posted on the success of his shock wave, but at this point, i’d say go for it.
the unknowing is awful, but you’re not alone. holler if you need anything, or just want to chat.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Brandy, really appreciate it. Glad to know I’ve got support through this rough time. 🙂
I’m def going to get an ultrasound done here in the next few days. The ultraoundist I’m using has a good reputation around here so hopefully she’ll be able to shed some light for me. Please keep me updated on Auto’s shockwave!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Fist bump for support.
LikeLiked by 1 person
😦 very sorry to hear this. Sending big hugs!
I do know two people who’s horses had similar injuries. Both improved after three months (1st horse) or six months (2nd horse) of stall rest and have been sound ever since. One girl used the handwalking time to walk her horse over tarps/other scary things and it really seemed to improve their relationship (her horse was kind of a pushy turd before). The other girl did lots of grooming and bathing on her mare and was able to ride some other horses in the meantime.
LikeLike
Thank you! I’m def planning on lots of grooming and walking around the property and surounding farm trails with Spot. Was thinking I could hone my braiding skills!
LikeLike
I’m so sad you for you and Ms. Spots! Sending you all the best during recovery!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, girl…send me that good karma!
LikeLike